Bailey: Fans, it’s all about you, so what would you like?

Let’s have a little family discussion today. And let’s forget the guys on the field for just a moment. Jim Crane said in yesterday’s press conference introduction that it’s all about you. Fans are his first order of business.

So, what can Mr. Crane do for you, the number one objective of his new management team? What needs to happen off the field to get your attention between now and opening day? What are you really passionate about?

I’ll get you started with a few thorn-in-the-side matters that are commonly recognized, but feel free to chime in with other ideas that would make your experience better.

The Fowl Poles. Are these really a hill to die on? What’s so bad about making a buck on one of baseball’s mandated parts of the stadium.

Uniforms. Does it really matter what threads the guys put on each game? As long as the jersies aren’t chartrouse, isn’t it more important how they play the game? Is anyone seriously going to stand up for the rainbow jersies in this day and time? They were decent 30 years ago and a unique calling card for the Astrodome. If you like the rainbows, why not let’s roll out the new Astros’ camoflauge unis?

Ticket prices. Ah, yes, now this has been a sore point, possibly because prices go up each year despite a losing season. Suffice it to say that while the Astros’ payroll is perenially in the top 10 in the majors, ticket prices are not. In fact, the Astros are 16th of 30 teams. Several smaller markets, including Minnesota Kansas City, are actually higher than Houston. Perhaps an olive branch for something like half-price Wednesdays or a break for families of four or more would be great on Thursdays this summer would be great.

Concessions. I know, you want to bring your own food into the game. Okay, let’s talk about it. What would you like to bring to the game? A bag of peanuts? Some nachos? Maybe a passle of hot dogs? Yeah, I don’t like it when they make me finish my bottle of water, but they also force me to do that when I go to a college game too.

Tal’s Hill. So, is it the actual hill that causes you angst or is it the namesake? Of course, this is one of the elements of the old Crosley Field that McLane and the builders chose to emulate as a throwback to baseball history. With center field 436 feet away from home plate, it seldom is a factor. But it’s also one of those home field advantage things, since Michael Bourn has pretty much tamed it while visiting center fielders have issues with it. What’s your say: Remove the hill? Move the center field fence in to 415-420 feet?

Kick Milo to the curb. Come on guys and gals, this is a non-starter. Yes, he’s older and he’s past his prime, but show some respect. The man was one of the premier broadcasters of his time. Perhaps promote him to some public relations role, give him some cameo appearances on TV and radio or other public announcing opportunities during games (who’s that guy that sings God Bless America?).

Nail that roof shut. Another one of those things some fans are passionate about. Look, I recently took my first trip to Wrigley Field and it was great. It was raining a bit and chilly, the turf was a bit slippery, but it was baseball. Yes, if you have a roof and rain is in the forecast, just the darn thing, but what’s wrong with a little outdoorsy approach, especially in April or late September?